Jordan Hall, a visionary philosopher associated with Ivan Illich, discusses his concept of Civium and Tools for Conviviality. Topics include rethinking technology, building a resilient economy, balancing human nature and spirituality, exploring the hollow pursuit of material wealth, the relationship between religion and the transcendent, renewing human institutions, connecting to a place, and exploring sin, repentance, and personal growth.
The podcast emphasizes the significance of genuine, dynamic relationships that bring about a sense of aliveness and vitality, challenging static institutions and encouraging a focus on love and connection.
The cyclical nature of human institutions is explored, suggesting that the current metacrisis may lead to a restoration of spiritual values and a more balanced approach in creating institutions.
The concept of civium is presented as collaborative spaces embodying spiritual values and practices, fostering inclusive, cosmoleocalism communities where diverse backgrounds coexist harmoniously.
Deep dives
The importance of vital relationships
In the podcast episode, the speaker emphasizes the significance of experiencing vital relationships in life. They highlight that the essence of religion and spirituality lies in the lived experience of love and connection with others. The importance of genuine, dynamic relationships is emphasized as it brings about a sense of aliveness and vitality. This perspective challenges the notion of static institutions and encourages individuals to focus on the eternal qualities of love and connection rather than dogma or doctrine.
The cycle of human institutions
The podcast delves into the cyclical nature of human institutions, drawing insights from the work of David Graeber. It is noted that throughout history, institutions tend to undergo a cycle of vitality, material accumulation, spiritual debasement, and eventual collapse. However, the collapse of these institutions often paves the way for renewed spiritual focus and new possibilities. This perspective suggests that the current metacrisis may lead to a restoration of spiritual values and a shift towards a more balanced and mature approach in the design and creation of institutions.
The essence of civium and spiritual life
Civium, or collaborative spaces, are seen as a ground for the embodiment of spiritual values and practices. The podcast highlights the importance of intimate relationships, love, and vibrant connections within these spaces. The concept of civium allows for the coexistence of diverse religious and spiritual backgrounds, recognizing that the essence of love and connection transcends specific doctrinal or denominational differences. This inclusive approach fosters a cosmoleocalism, in which universal and local values harmoniously coexist, paving the way for a new paradigm of spiritual life within communities.
The Crisis of Meaning and the Collapse of Systems
The podcast episode delves into the concept of a meta-crisis, which is a profound crisis affecting multiple aspects of human existence. The speaker suggests that this meta-crisis could lead to a collapse of systems, such as the monetary system, ultimately forcing individuals to confront the spiritual aspect of their lives directly. It is proposed that people already have a sense that societal institutions are hollow, but are unwilling to acknowledge it formally. However, when external factors like the loss of material excess through the collapse of the monetary system occur, individuals are compelled to address their spiritual needs more directly. This transition from material to spiritual pursuits is seen as a necessary and advantageous outcome of the current crisis.
The Importance of Religion and the Institutional Challenge
The podcast also explores the significance of religion in navigating the meta-crisis. The speaker and the host discuss the need for religion in contemporary society and the concept of faith. They emphasize that religion provides a sense of intimacy, connection, and care within a community. However, they highlight the challenge of institutionalizing religion, as institutions tend to become senescent and disconnected from the true essence of spirituality. The conversation emphasizes that true religion involves a live relationship and recognizing the value of proper differences within congregations. The speaker also mentions the potential shift towards a more oral culture, but affirms that books, like the enduring nature of the book, still have a unique role to play in engaging with deep and transformative ideas.
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I asked Jordan about his relationship with the philosopher and historian Ivan Illich and how that relates to his concept of Civium and his recent article:
https://deepcode.substack.com/p/from-city-to-civium
Jordan Hall is a visionary philosopher celebrated for his groundbreaking insights into the realms of collective intelligence, sense-making, and the intricate tapestry of modern civilization. With a keen intellect and a penchant for unraveling complex societal dynamics, he has emerged as a guiding light in our quest to fathom the intricacies of our rapidly changing world.
Hall's contributions to the global discourse extend beyond his words; he is a true architect of change. His work illuminates pathways for societies and communities to deftly navigate the labyrinthine challenges of the 21st century, offering a compass for those seeking to understand and shape our collective destiny. (written with the help of ChatGPT)
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